The Hungry Ghost Festival – Buddhist tradition to honour the dead on the seventh month of the Chinese calendar. It is stated that during this time that both the gates of heaven and hell open and the dead once again return to the world. These spirits crave both entertainment and nourishment and these materials are provided to them by their lived ones. Below illustrates a common practice conducted by the Chinese people during this festival which includes lighting a candle and placing it in a lotus to symbolize a spirit returning to the Earth.
The Festival of the Cows – A Nepal tradition conducted in the Kathmandu valley. It is a celebration to honour those who have passed away just in the past year and includes having a procession of cows parade through the streets in Kathmandu. The cows are provided by the loved ones family but if they do not own or cannot afford a cow this job is done by the family’s youngest child. The cows were chosen to honour the dead due to their holy ties and the belief that they help guide the dead through their journey in the afterlife. Following the parade the people wear masks, sing songs and tell jokes while enjoying a large feast. Below is a picture illustrating one of the natives wearing a festive mask and also a video depicting the procession of cows through the village.
Death of the Dead – A tradition conducted by the Mexican people where the dead are not mourned for but celebrated. The friends and family of the deceased pray for their past away loved ones in order to aid them through their journey in the afterlife. It is a day where the people sing, dance and feast in efforts to honour the dead. Below is a picture of a famous figurine used during the celebrations.
